OPTIONS FOR REDUCING CO2 EMISSIONS FROM THE ENERGY SUPPLY SECTOR

Deep reductions in CO2 emissions from the global energy system are tec hnically feasible over the course of the next century, using various c ombinations of low CO2 energy technologies, Moreover, an energy future characterized by deep emissions reduction over the longer term is pla usibly achievable with costs for energy services that are approximatel y the same as estimated future costs of energy services based on conve ntional energy - given adequate time (several decades) and an economic and political climate conducive to the needed innovations, Strong and sustained investments would be needed for research and development, d emonstration and diffusion of a wide range of energy technologies char acterized by low or zero CO2 emissions, Since at present the levels of investment are low and declining, new public and private sector energ y innovation policies are needed. Copyright (C) Elsevier Science Ltd.